COURSE STANDARDS
The band classroom is a very unique learning environment. The activities assigned to the students are quite different than the tasks that might be assigned in another class. Students in band will:
1. Achieve an understanding and appreciation for music through singing, and playing their instrument. Participation is crucial in this process. The best way to learn is through doing.
2. Complete written assignments in music theory and composition.
3. Perform in small groups to check for accuracy of skills and understanding of the skills taught in class.
I will NEVER ask a student to play a solo in front of the class unless they volunteer! Playing your instrument will NEVER be used as a punishment!
4. Perform a varied repertoire of music to be played in a variety of styles and genres.
5. Learn the physical and audible changes that are taking place while playing their instrument.
6. Demonstrate an understanding of composers, time periods and musical history surrounding the styles of the pieces that are being rehearsed.
REQUIRED MATERIALS
· Music and a folder will be provided for all students. Students will need to store and organize their music. They will be required to have their music in class everyday.
· Students will need a pencil and agenda books for every class period.
· CONCERT ATTIRE: Each student will need a SCMS Band T-Shirt and khaki pants for every performance. One band t-shirt will be provided to each student at no charge. (Certain concerts may require changes in concert attire; those changes will be communicated well in advance.)
PERFORMANCES
Band is a “performance based” class. Concerts, Festivals, Community Appearances, and any event the entire band is committed to perform are considered an extension of the class and are required for members to attend. Of course there are circumstances that are out of our control, and those can be addressed on an individual basis.
Events such as non-school related ballgames, family events, etc. WILL NOT be excused absences from concerts.
Excused absences are outlined in the student handbook and will apply to band events as well. I am willing to work with parents if the conflict is known and addressed in advance. I would appreciate a phone call or written notice at least three days in advance of any event so that any necessary arrangements can be made before the event.
SPECIAL OPPORTUNITIES
There will be several occasions during the school year for students to participate in extra events and activities. These are opportunities for students to push themselves further than they can achieve in class. I strongly urge all singers to take advantage of these opportunities. None of these events will be required, but all of them may require additional time outside of class and some partial funding. The students who do choose to participate and do qualify are expected to fulfill their responsibilities to their school, peers and themselves.
GRADING
· Weekly there is a possibility of 100 points, 20 points per day based on participation in class.
· Points are given automatically each day; points are then subtracted for negative or non-participation.
· Performers will be expected to pass the required assessment levels based on the desired grade for each 9 weeks. These assessment levels will be recorded on class iPads or checked off by the director or designee during class or AE time on Thursday and Friday.
· Concerts are seen as a test for the content learned. Points are given that will reflect the “assessment event.” Points for concerts will be considerably more than a daily grade.
Makeup Policy
· For all in-class work including daily theory grade, students are required to get the work they missed in order to receive credit for the assignment. Daily assignments are collected on Fridays, and days will need to be filled to receive full credit.
· Performance events are the culminating activity for the units of study in band and carry a heavy weight in the grading for the nine weeks in which concerts are scheduled. If a member misses a concert for any reason some if not all of those points can be acquired by completing one of the make-up assignments located on this website or a written copy can be requested.
Fundraising
This year there will be at least one fundraising event. Any funds raised by the band will directly affect the band, from purchasing the band t-shirts, to paying for transportation to events, there are many things within the band program that require extra funds. While fundraising activities ARE NOT a required activity, I would encourage every family to help in any manner they see fit with these fundraising activities. Our fundraiser with Moore & Moore fundraising is set to begin, September.
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